Preventing Frozen Hydraulic Equipment

Winter presents a unique set of challenges for hydraulic systems.

As temperatures plunge, the risk of equipment failure due to freezing fluid, brittle seals, or clogged lines increases dramatically.

For hydraulic parts distributors, this season is an opportunity to not only supply the right components but also to be a trusted source of guidance for end-users preparing their equipment for the cold.

By sharing best practices and offering winter-ready solutions, you can help your customers keep their systems running smoothly, no matter how low the temperature drops.

Understanding the Impact of Freezing Temperatures

Imagine a frigid winter morning where a hydraulic-powered excavator sits idle on a job site because its fluid has thickened into a syrupy consistency, rendering the machine useless. This is a common scenario in cold weather when hydraulic fluid isn’t chosen or maintained correctly.

As temperatures drop, fluid viscosity increases, making it harder for the system to circulate the fluid efficiently.

Even more problematic is the presence of water in the hydraulic fluid. Any contamination can freeze into ice crystals, leading to clogged lines, damaged components, and potential safety hazards.

Winterizing is vital to maintaining fluid power systems, and can help to prevent:

• Damaging increases in viscosity
• Trapped moisture in piping
• Ice build-up
• Cavitation and lack of lubrication
• Loss of hydraulic pump and motor function
• Damaged hydraulic hoses, seals, mountings, fittings, and other rubber components

Even though the freezing point that causes hydraulic oil to gel and become unusable is -10 degrees Fahrenheit, a much lower threshold than the ambient freezing point of 32 degrees Fahrenheit, fluid can still increase in viscosity before gelling, causing performance issues with hydraulic pumps and motors.

Distributors who educate their customers about these risks can save them from costly downtime and repairs.

The Role of Fluids in Cold Weather Performance

The first line of defense against freezing is selecting the right hydraulic fluid. Many standard fluids aren’t designed for subzero temperatures and can thicken or lose their lubricating properties.

Viscosity should be the first consideration when preparing fluid power systems for the cold.

Using fluid with the right viscosity for the application can help to protect equipment from friction, abrasion, and adhesive wear rise.

The wrong viscosity can have the opposite effect. High oil viscosity can lead to starved pumps, cavitation, and lack of lubrication. Lower temperatures cause hydraulic fluid to increase to a higher viscosity. Close attention should be placed on grade, pour point (and added depressants), as well as the viscosity index (VI) of fluids.

To prepare fluid systems, choose hydraulic fluids with a low VI, which is measured when subjected to change in temperature. The higher the viscosity index, the higher the resistance to change in viscosity.

Maintenance: The Unsung Hero of Winterization

Another critical component of preventing freezing is proactive maintenance. Before the first frost, encourage your customers to inspect their equipment thoroughly.

Components such as hoses, seals, and reservoirs should be checked for signs of wear or damage. Water-contaminated hydraulic fluid, often unnoticed during warmer months, must be drained and replaced with fresh fluid to prevent freezing.

For best cold weather performance, run the hydraulic pump or use a hydraulic tank heater before operation. It is best to check and ensure the hydraulic oil temperature is reading 150 degrees Fahrenheit prior to running to ensure proper lubrication throughout the system.

Protecting Hydraulic Equipment in the Field

Even with the right fluid and maintenance in place, additional measures are often necessary to combat extreme cold. Hydraulic systems exposed to the elements are particularly vulnerable.

Insulated covers or thermal blankets can shield components from the cold, while oil heaters or preheaters ensure fluid stays within optimal operating temperatures.

Other tips for winter storage that protect fluid power systems:

• Remove any attachment parts and store them separately
• Inspect for cracks and tears on rubber components
• Keep spare seals, rubber mounts, and fittings in closed storage
• Replace any hydraulic hoses, tires or belts that have abrasions
• Store protective wraps and sleeves

A Shared Responsibility

Winterization isn’t just about protecting equipment; it’s about protecting the productivity and livelihoods of the people who rely on it.

By providing the right parts, sharing your expertise, and emphasizing proactive care, you can help your customers avoid the pitfalls of freezing temperatures.

When end-users know they can count on you for both products and guidance, you become more than a distributor — you become a trusted partner. And when you partner with Hydraulic Parts Source, you have everything you need to deliver value, reliability, and peace of mind this winter.

Hydraulic Parts Source is a leading fluid power remanufacturer, and we’re ready to serve you. Contact us today to discuss forming an alliance by calling (866) 514-8451 or get a quote by emailing sales@hydparts.com.